Colt Lightweight Commander Model .38 Super Semi-Auto Pistol & Box, 1968 C&R
SOLD FOR: $4025
LSB#: 230329TM004
Make: Colt
Model: Lightweight Commander Model
Serial Number: 54008-LW
Year of Manufacture: 1968 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .38 Super
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic with Removable Magazine
Barrel Length: 4 1/4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade with a serrated, ramped face fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered Coltwood with molded Colt medallions. The grips have no notable wear or damage, but there is some minor stretching at the screw-holes. This is common due to shrinkage in Coltwood but on this pistol it is quite minor compared to many examples we have seen. Overall, the grips are in Fine-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Black Alloy Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is some minor operational wear on the sides of the trigger and grip safety. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The slide’s finish has a slight plum hue, more notable due to contrast with the black of the alloy frame. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide has very minor play to the frame. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a 9-round magazine, warranty card, manual, and a two-piece Colt box with matching serial number hand-written on the bottom.
Our Assessment: Introduced by Colt as a lighter-weight version of the 1911, the smaller size of the Commander was popular and soon they were offered in a number of variations including different frame materials and calibers. The original development centered on an aluminum-frame 9mm as a candidate for US Military post-war officer’s pistols, but were also offered in the more powerful .38 Super cartridge. This example was produced in 1968, chambered for .38 Super and is in Excellent condition. This one has minimal wear paired with a great bore and action. While this will make for a nice carry pistol in a potent chambering that doesn’t compromise on capacity, it will certainly also be a nice addition to a Colt or 1911 collection, especially with the included box. Please see our photos and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
